Peugeot 308

On sale 20th September 2007

By choosing a car with the most fuel-efficient engine in its class, the Department for Transport says drivers could cut CO2 emissions and save on fuel costs by some 25%. However Ipsos MORI research commissioned by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Limited shows that low levels of CO2 emissions are less important to buyers than price and annual running costs. Yet lower CO2 emissions will actually bring down running costs.

Peugeot has made the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions a key priority on the new 308 which will go on sale on 20th September. The five seater family car uses lighter materials – aluminium and composite panels and Michelin Energy Saving Tyres. Over ten years these tyres could save 1 tonne of CO2 emissions.

The European End of Life Vehicles Directive has been taken into account in the choice of materials which allows the recycling or re-use of 99% of the 308.

Replacing the 307, the 308 is the first Peugeot model to carry a number ending in 8. It builds on the strength of its predecessor, of which more than three million have been sold since its launch six years ago, with the hatchback being the best seller.

The exterior of the hatchback which is 74mm longer, wider by 53mm and lower, has two designs, a classic or sport styling. With twelve exterior body colours, five trim levels, different choices of interior ambience, cloth, or leather trim and even an integral leather fascia panel, the 308 knows how to play the ‘exclusive’ card.

What is significant is the upgraded interior quality. The dashboard sits lower and has been redesigned giving a more spacious feel, which is enhanced by the optional panoramic glass roof, which is standard on the SE and GT trim. Although lower, there is plenty of head space for rear passengers. The boot is larger by 7% and now includes a space saver spare wheel.

Optional equipment includes superior quality in car entertainment and telematics.

Safety is a major feature of this small family car. With technology inherited from the larger 407, the 308 has an unprecedented number of nine airbags, including two rear side air bags and a steering column airbag, depending on the trim. EuroNCAP has awarded the 308 five stars for safety.

The 308 is available with a choice of six lean burn engines, including three petrol engines, developed as part of the partnership with the BMW group. Three HDi diesel engines are available, one of which has an emission level of 120g/km.

Five of the six engines in the range are coupled with a 5 speed manual gearbox and the 2 litre diesel comes with a 6 speed manual transmission.

As part of the research and development programme concerning hybrids, the 308 is the first vehicle which could benefit from this technology should there be customer demand. Combined with an additional electric motor which would operate at low speed this would allow a gain in fuel consumption of around 30%. A diesel hybrid which will be launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show will go on sale in 2010.

The Peugeot 308 which starts from £11,995 otr will appeal to younger women who according to the SMMT survey are more willing to consider buying vehicles with lower CO2 emitting technologies. However, with style, safety and lots of choice, this small hatchback is sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. In fact Peugeot hopes to sell 40,000 per annum. Other body styles and automatic gearboxes will be launched throughout 2008 and the 3 door model will be launched at the end of this year.

Facts at a Glance
Model: Peugeot 308
Price: From £11,995 to £20,045
Engine Options at launch: 1.4, 1.6 (120bhp and 150bhp) petrol versions, 1.6 (90bhp and 110bhp) and 2 litre diesel versions
Performance: 1.6 litre (110bhp) diesel - 0-62mph in 11.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 119mph.
Combined fuel consumption: 57.6mpg
CO2 emissions: 130g/km

By Sue Cooke